23/08/2026
CYBERCRIME UNDER WATCH: PNP ARRESTS 18, FILES 49 CASES
The Philippine National Police (PNP), through its Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP ACG), turned digital leads into concrete police action, resulting in the arrest of 18 individuals and the filing of 49 cases in nationwide operations conducted from August 7 to 13, 2026.
Of those arrested, seven were apprehended through the implementation of warrants of arrest, while 11 were arrested in entrapment operations. The cases and arrests resulted from coordinated efforts of the PNP ACG’s operating units and regional teams across the country.
Chief PNP Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the results underscore the importance of keeping pace with the changing nature of crime, particularly as more activities move into the digital space.
“Online crime can happen behind a screen, but the harm is real. We continue to improve our capability to trace, verify, and act on information. Ang mahalaga, mabilis ang police response pero maingat din sa bawat hakbang, para matibay ang kaso at napoprotektahan ang publiko,” PGen Nartatez said.
The operations form part of the PNP’s Focused Agenda, particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, strengthening responsive and intelligence-supported action against emerging threats, including those online. This also supports the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in advancing public safety.
The PNP ACG reminds the public to stay vigilant in online transactions, verify information before sharing or acting on it, and report suspected cybercrime through proper authorities.
As threats evolve, the PNP remains committed to delivering “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman,” with capable, responsible, and responsive policing both on the streets and in the digital space.
(PNP-PIO)